“I was intrigued. At the same time I knew indisputably that I had found what I have been seeking all my life.”
“How could you have – known that?”
“You are not the only person, my lovely one, who is perceptive.”
“I-I knew you were – but not – me.”
“I am very very perceptive about you,” the Duc stated firmly. “But I realised that Jacques was watching us and, although I could hardly believe that he would destroy you as he had already destroyed two other women in my life, I was desperately afraid.”
He gave a deep sigh before he carried on.
“I blame myself for not, as I ought to have done, sending you back to England as being a very unsuitable Governess.”
Arletta gave a little cry.
“I was so afraid that you – might after you had seen – me in the ballroom. But I wanted to – stay here. I
